Katrina Rosales
Many people face the problem of smelly shoes, which can be caused by bacteria, fungi, or a lack of aeration. While some opt for home remedies like baking soda, cornstarch, or vinegar, others wonder if spraying perfume in their shoes can be a solution. The alcohol in the perfume may help to some extent, but it is not a reliable method. Instead, it is recommended to use a product that kills bacteria, and then finish off with a spritz of perfume for added fragrance. There are also specific linen perfume sprays available that are designed to be used on fabrics and can help eliminate odours while adding a pleasant scent.
Can I spray perfume in my shoes?
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Effectiveness | The alcohol in the perfume may have a little effect in reducing shoe odour, but it will not eliminate it. |
| Alternatives | Better alternatives include using antibacterial products, such as rubbing alcohol, baking soda, charcoal pads, or medicated foot powder. |
| Risks | Spraying perfume in shoes may simply mask the smell for a short period of time. |
| Other tips | To prevent shoe odour, wear shoes that fit you, are made of breathable fabric, and are alternated with other pairs. |
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What You'll Learn
Using alcohol to kill bacteria
While perfume may temporarily cover the smell of stinky shoes, it will not eliminate it. The alcohol in perfume may have a small effect, but it is better to use a method that kills bacteria, such as using rubbing alcohol, and then finishing off with a spritz of perfume.
Isopropyl alcohol, or rubbing alcohol, is a powerful antiseptic that can fight odour-causing bacteria in your shoes. To use, simply mix some alcohol with water in a spray bottle and mist the interior of your shoes. Be sure to use an alcohol that ranges in strength from 70-99%, and let your shoes dry overnight.
Other methods to kill bacteria in shoes include using disinfectant wipes, sprays, or sanitizing mats with disinfectant solutions. You can also try a three-percent solution of hydrogen peroxide, which can disinfect your shoes and remove visible stains. It is typically safe for colours as well. Spray it on the bottom of your shoes and allow it to sit for five minutes before wiping it away.
If your shoes are made of cloth, you can try using vinegar, which slows down fungal growth, or baking soda, which reduces the activity of fungal spores and can help eliminate odours. To use these products together, sprinkle baking soda on your shoes, inside and out, and then spray them with white or apple cider vinegar diluted with water. Rub your shoes all over with a clean white cloth, using a circular motion. Allow your shoes to sit for 12 hours before wiping them down with a wet cloth.
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Baking soda and charcoal to absorb odours
While spraying perfume in your shoes may cover the smell a bit, it will not eliminate it. Shoe odours are usually caused by bacteria, fungi, or microorganisms. The alcohol in the perfume may have a small effect, but it is better to use a method that kills bacteria, such as spraying the insides of your shoes with rubbing alcohol, and then finishing off with a spritz of perfume.
Baking soda and charcoal are also great natural alternatives to absorb odours in shoes. Baking soda (sodium bicarbonate) removes odours by neutralising the acidic pH of other substances, including moisture in shoes where bacteria thrive and odours from human sweat. It is also the cheapest way to treat and clean smelly shoes. To use baking soda, start by putting 1 tablespoon of baking soda in each shoe, then shake the shoes to spread it over the insoles. Let the shoes sit overnight so the baking soda can absorb the odours. In the morning, dump out the baking soda and wear your shoes as usual. If you want your shoes to have a nice fragrance, try mixing the baking soda with a few drops of an essential oil, such as citrus or lavender. You can also add a few drops of essential oil to a baking soda sachet, such as lavender, to help add a pleasant fragrance to the sachet.
Charcoal is also highly absorbent and can help remove odours. It is worth noting that while baking soda and charcoal can absorb odours, if the bacteria and fungi are still present in your shoes, they will produce odours again and thrive when the shoes are damp.
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Washing shoes with detergent
While spraying perfume in your shoes may temporarily cover the smell, it will not eliminate it. Shoe odour is usually due to bacteria, fungi, or other microorganisms. The alcohol in the perfume may have a small effect, but it is better to use a method that kills bacteria, such as sprinkling baking soda inside the shoes and leaving them overnight.
If you want to wash your shoes with detergent, the first step is to check your shoe's care instructions for washing recommendations. While some shoes lend themselves well to machine washing, many other types of footwear require hand cleaning or specialized care. Shoes made with materials like canvas, nylon, cotton, and polyester are usually safe to wash in a washing machine. These materials are durable and are not likely to be damaged by laundry detergent. Shoes made of materials like leather, suede, rubber, and vinyl, or sports shoes with rubber or metal cleats, should not be placed in the washer. If your shoes are made of delicate material (like silk) or feature beading, embroidery, sequins, or other embellishments, take them to a shoe repair and cleaning specialist to avoid damaging them.
If you are handwashing your shoes, use a solution of detergent and warm water to gently clean the inside and outside of the shoes. You can use a soft brush to scrub the shoes and then wipe them off with a paper towel to dry. If you are washing the shoes in a washing machine, first remove the laces and insoles from your shoes. Shoe laces can become tangled in the washing machine, and many insoles are delicate, so removing them is best. Clean the laces and insoles by hand by scrubbing them with dishwashing soap or liquid detergent and a soft brush or rag. Allow them to air-dry completely before returning them to their rightful place. You can place the laces in a mesh garment bag along with your sneakers in the washing machine. Use a soft brush to remove any dirt or debris on the soles of your shoes. Place the shoes in the washing machine along with a few old towels to help balance the load. Make sure the towels are old—newer ones could leach excess dye that could stain your shoes. Set your washing machine to a delicate, cold water cycle with a slow or no-spin option. Use liquid detergent or laundry pods because powder detergent may not dissolve properly and could get stuck in the shoes.
Once the wash cycle is complete, remove your shoes and laces from the mesh bags and let them air dry. You can stuff your shoes with clean rags or paper towels to absorb excess moisture and help the shoes keep their shape as they dry. It is important to note that your shoes may take a few days to air dry. To help speed up the drying process, you can place your shoes in an area where they’ll receive a lot of sunlight or aim a fan or blow dryer at them.
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Using shoe perfumes and sprays
While it is possible to use perfume or shoe spray to mask the smell of stinky shoes, this will only provide a temporary solution. The odour is usually due to bacteria or fungi that grow inside the shoes, especially when they are damp. Therefore, it is important to address the root cause of the problem.
- Before spraying any perfume or shoe spray, start by addressing the root cause of the odour. Remove the insoles, as this is where the smell often originates.
- Kill the bacteria or fungi causing the odour. Spray the insides of your shoes with rubbing alcohol, or a natural linen perfume spray with disinfectant properties. Allow the shoes to fully dry out.
- Absorb any remaining odours. Sprinkle baking soda or cornstarch inside the shoes and leave them overnight. Then, vacuum or shake out the powder. Alternatively, use a sachet of activated charcoal, which is highly absorbent.
- Finish with a spritz of perfume or shoe spray. This will add a pleasant scent to your shoes.
Remember, it is important to prevent shoe odour in the first place. Alternate the shoes you wear daily, allowing them to air out. Wear shoes that fit you properly and are made of breathable fabrics to reduce foot sweat.
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Preventative measures to reduce foot sweat
While it may be tempting to spritz some perfume in your shoes to mask the smell, this is not a long-term solution. The alcohol in the perfume may have a temporary effect, but it is better to address the root cause of the odour.
Foot sweat is a common issue, and it is typically caused by the following factors:
- Warm weather or exercise: Sweating helps regulate body temperature, so it is natural to sweat more when it is hot or when engaging in physical activity.
- Footwear: The type of shoes and socks you wear can impact the amount of sweat your feet produce. Poorly ventilated, synthetic, or non-leather shoes can trap moisture and lead to bacterial growth, resulting in odour.
- Standing for long periods: If you're on your feet all day, it's natural to experience more foot sweat.
- Hyperhidrosis: In some cases, excessive foot sweat may be a symptom of a medical condition called hyperhidrosis, which requires medical attention.
To reduce foot sweat and prevent odour, consider the following preventative measures:
- Wash your feet regularly: Good foot hygiene is essential. Use a gentle soap or shower gel to wash your feet, as it will help cool them down and remove bacteria.
- Choose the right footwear: Opt for shoes made with breathable fabrics such as canvas. Avoid synthetic materials that don't allow your feet to breathe. Make sure your shoes fit properly, as ill-fitting shoes can also increase sweating.
- Alternate your shoes: Avoid wearing the same pair of shoes two days in a row. Give them time to air out before wearing them again.
- Wear the right socks: Choose socks made from natural fibres or cotton socks that wick away perspiration. Avoid tight shoes and synthetic socks that trap moisture.
- Keep your environment cool: Use a fan to circulate the air and keep your feet cool, especially during warm weather.
- Antiperspirants: Apply antiperspirants directly to your feet to temporarily block sweat glands and reduce sweating. Spray antiperspirants can also be used on your feet before putting on your shoes.
- Foot sprays: Try using foot sprays with tea tree and peppermint oil to keep your feet cool and reduce odour.
- Soak your feet: Soaking your feet in black tea or using foot lotions can help reduce sweating.
- Medical treatments: For severe cases of hyperhidrosis, consult a doctor. They may recommend treatments such as Drysol or surgical options like Endoscopic Lumbar Symphatectomy.
Additionally, you can address the odour in your shoes by following these steps:
- Remove the insoles: The insole is often the source of the smell. Take it out and either wash it or replace it.
- Use baking soda: Sprinkle baking soda or cornstarch inside the shoes and leave them overnight. Vacuum out the powder, which will help absorb smells and bacteria.
- Activated charcoal: Place activated charcoal pads or sachets inside your shoes. They are highly absorbent and effective in removing odours.
- Wash your shoes: Hand-wash your shoes with detergent and warm water to gently clean the inside and outside, removing bacteria and odour.
- Use rubbing alcohol: Spray the insides of your shoes with rubbing alcohol to kill bacteria and reduce odour.
By addressing both foot hygiene and shoe odour, you can effectively reduce foot sweat and prevent unpleasant smells.
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Frequently asked questions
While you can spray perfume in your shoes, it will only mask the smell and not eliminate it. The shoe odour is usually due to bacteria or other microorganisms.
To eliminate the odour, you can try using an antibacterial product or method. For example, you can spray the insides of your shoes with rubbing alcohol, sprinkle baking soda inside, and leave them to dry out.
Yes, there are several other methods you can try. You can use baking powder, talc powder, or a foot powder. You can also try freezing your shoes, but this may only temporarily diminish the odour.
Yes, there are commercial products designed to eliminate shoe odour. These include activated charcoal pads and shoe sprays.
